Annual Native Plant Sale returns to Mayslake Peabody Estate May 16-17

Gardeners are invited to shop the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s popular Native Plant Sale on May 16-17.

The sale will be 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st St. in Oak Brook.

Shoppers can get gardening tips from onsite plant experts and choose from 14 species debuting at this year’s sale.

A list of anticipated native flowers, grasses, trees, and shrubs is available on the district’s website at dupageforest.org/native-plant-sale, but actual inventory will be based on supplier availability. Plants are not restocked each night.

Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own boxes and wagons to transport their plants. Cash, credit, and checks will be accepted.

All plants will have originated from seed collected within 100 miles of DuPage County and will be free of insecticides containing neonicotinoids, which are harmful to bees and other pollinators.

“Our sale is a great way to show how easy and rewarding it can be to grow native plants,” said Anamari Dorgan, director of Community Engagement at the Forest Preserve District. “Native plants bring beauty to your yard; support butterflies, birds, and bees; and are easier to care for than nonnatives once established.”

“Plus, our sale is special because you can chat one-on-one with our plant experts, who can help you pick the perfect plants based on your garden and goals,” she added.

All proceeds from the sale will support educational programming at the Forest Preserve District.

Native plants provide food for pollinators and require less maintenance and water than annuals during the hot summer months. Those with deep roots also help aerate the soil and clean the air.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County improves the quality of life for all DuPage County residents. Its 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways contribute to cleaner air and water, help with flood control, create vital habitats for wildlife, and provide safe spaces where people can boost their physical and mental health. More than 5.9 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 175 miles of trails, seven education centers, and scores of programs each year.

For information, call (630) 933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the district’s e-newsletter and Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok pages.